I am reading this book: Maps to Anywhere by Bernard Cooper. I am pleasantly surprised by this book of short essays, his work lyrical and poetic, written as though he is painting imagery, not merely describing ... He is an art historian and his short works are autobiographical, but obviously influenced by his art background.

I read this essay last night and it made me wonder if he is referring to Marc Chagall's paintings. Here is an excerpt from the essay:

Saturday Night

Can Mother muster enough thrust to leave the earth in a sudden leap? Does Father need words of encouragement, a rabbit's foot, a running start? Will they rise above our suburb at dusk and see it studded with lights? Wind must play havoc with mother's dress, her stole blown back like a vapour trail. Father's suit, diminishing, dark, will become part of the night. What instinct helps them scout for the house, find the right street, land on their feet? ...

It especially reminded me of Chagall's Au Dessus de la Ville (shown below)